Humphreys And Botha Back In Ulster Squad

Ulster head coach Brian McLaughlin has named a 35-man squad ahead of Friday's Magners League match against the Scarlets at Ravenhill (kick-off 7.05pm).

Ian Humphreys and BJ Botha return to Ulster's preliminary squad for their showdown with fellow play-off chasers, the Scarlets.

Prop Botha has not played since injuring his elbow before Christmas, while Humphreys pulled a hamstring during training last month.

The return of both players will be a timely boost for Ulster with a string of important matches coming up for Brian McLaughlin's side.

Hooker and captain Rory Best is back in contention for a starting place after appearing as a second half replacement against Glasgow Warriors last weekend.

Young winger Conor Gaston has retained his place in the squad for the third week running after impressive performances in his first two senior appearances.

Ulster currently sit third in the Magners League after five straight wins and will be hoping to continue their rise up the table.

With their Heineken Cup quarter-final against Northampton Saints coming just nine days after the Scarlets game, McLaughlin will be hoping for an improved performance after scraping past the Dragons and Glasgow in their last two outings.

The Scarlets occupy sixth position but are just five points adrift of Ulster and with a Magners League semi-final spot up for grabs, it promises to be a closely-fought game.

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt praised the squad's 'immense character' following the 27-24 GUINNESS Series success against Australia. Meanwhile, captain Rory Best reflects on 'an emotional day' as he made his 100th appearance for his country.

Irish Rugby TV brings you a behind the scenes look at Ireland's final GUINNESS Series game against Australia. Joe Schmidt's men marked captain Rory Best's 100th cap with a superb 27-24 victory over the Wallabies.

Saturday's GUINNESS Series clash with Australia marks Michael Kearney's last game as Ireland team manager. We spoke to him about five memorable years in the role. Watch out for a couple of special cameos!

We're ready to create something legendary. A showcase for rugby nations old and new. A tournament that will grow the game globally, promote the values, spirit and ethos of rugby and will capture the world's imagination. #Ireland2023 - Liam Neeson gives voice to Ireland's bid to host Rugby World Cup 2023.

Tickets are now on sale for the first ever Women's November International Series to be held in the UCD Bowl. Kids go free with any adult tickets. Ireland will face world champions England, top ranked Canada and the Black Ferns of New Zealand.

Tournament Director Garrett Tubridy sets the scene for an exciting weekend of rugby at UCD where 16 Women's Sevens teams will battle it out at for one qualifying spot for the Rio Olympics. Tickets are available from www.ticketmaster.ie/sevens.

Tadhg Furlong reflects on a disappointing day for Ireland against South Africa. However, he will take positives from his first Test start and be ready to build for the final match of the series in Port Elizabeth.

Paddy Jackson is preparing for Ireland's second Test against South Africa on Saturday (kick-off 5pm local time/4pm Irish time). The Ulster out-half has been checking out Ellis Park in advance of the match.